Warren M. Zapol, MD, director of the Anesthesia Center for Critical Care Research, has been reappointed by President Barack Obama to a four-year term as a commissioner of the U.S. Arctic Research Commission. The group works to develop and recommend an integrated U.S. national Arctic research policy and advises federal agencies on Arctic research goals. Zapol has been the member of the commission focusing on Arctic health since 2008 and has worked to advance mental health programs in the Arctic and improve the provision of water and sanitation in Arctic villages.

Martin S. Hirsch, MD, of the MGH Division of Infectious Diseases, has been selected to receive the 2012 Alexander Fleming Award for Lifetime Achievement from the Infectious Diseases Society of America during its annual meeting in October. The award recognizes Hirsch’s major contributions to the acquisition and dissemination of knowledge about infectious diseases.

For the third consecutive year, the MGH Institute of Health Professions has been named one of the best colleges to work for in the nation, according to a new survey by The Chronicle of Higher Education. This year, the institute received special recognition in Compensation and Benefits for providing employees a fair wage and benefits to meet their needs, as well as in Facilities, Workspace and Security, for having facilities that adequately meet needs, maintaining a pleasing campus appearance and taking steps to provide a secure environment.

Biju Parekkadan, PhD, an assistant bioengineer in the Center for Engineering in Medicine, is a recipient of the Presidential Early Career Award for Scientists and Engineers, the highest honor given by the U.S. government for professionals in the early stages of their independent research careers. The award recognizes Parekkadan’s innovative approach to stem cell research using bioengineering principles and tools. His inventions are the foundation for new products being developed for clinical use in immunological diseases and regenerative medicine.